Revel in nature, Cherokee style.

Most of us don’t even know we’ve lost it—our innate connection to the earth. The Cherokee visualize nature as inclusive of all things: animals, plants and people—all of equal importance—to ensure balance and harmony. Doesn’t that sound refreshing? Put your shades on. It’s time for you to experience the outdoors with a new perspective.

Paradise for curious nature lovers.

Having Great Smoky Mountains National Park at your doorstep means heaven for outdoorsy folk. Sacred Cherokee sites and stories appear around every bend in the trail. The Cherokee view their native home as a “living garden,” alive with food from the rivers to the top of the mountains, requiring great care and respect so that they eat well and stay in harmony with nature. Consider that over 800 miles of the best hiking trails east of the Mississippi are located here. Or consider the effect of viewing waterfalls of such cascading awesomeness you feel them flowing right through you. Like Mingo. Or Soco. They have to be seen to be believed, as does the successful reintroduction of elk. The herd that makes Cherokee its home provides something only nature can: you’re left feeling more connected, like someone’s tapped your spirit gently on the shoulder, encouraging it to wake from a long slumber.

Drench your soul.

Be it kayak, canoe, raft or tube; whether it’s rapids or the serene waters of the Oconaluftee you seek—you’ll find in Cherokee a place where worries simply drift away with the murmur of the healing waters. Oconaluftee Islands Park is a central hub for water lovers. From a cooling, relaxing wade with the little ones to picnics full of laughter and body surfing, the Islands Park frees you from mundane modern existence even before you realize you’ve forgotten to check Facebook for hours.

Cherokee is for the birds.

No, really. This area is host to over 200 species of birds and six state-recognized birding trails, making it one of the best bird watching sites in the Southeast. So, if you haven’t seen a Rose-breasted Grosbeak in a while...keep your fingers crossed; you might also catch a glimpse of a black bear or two—real or made of fiberglass. Which version do you imagine your companion would rather encounter? This is anything but a boring vacation.

Dimming of the day.

You’ve braved the wild outdoors and seen a lot. The bonfire warms you into a sleepy haze, and your head is now filled with images of ancient petroglyphs and exploding pink blossoms of rhododendron reflecting in the rippling pools below the waterfalls. You can almost see the creatures you’ve heard about: the water bears wallowing in their purple puddles that they were known to imbue with transformative powers. Now it’s time for a comfortable bed in Cherokee for the evening. Even a rugged outdoorsman can use a rest in a comfy La-Z-Boy.

Outdoor Adventure

Experience the breathtaking surroundings and long-range views of Sequoyah National Golf Club. Here, our exquisitely beautiful mountain course mixes with ancient Cherokee culture and the most modern golfing experience you can have. For instance, our new Visage GPS tracks your score, provides precise yardage, and lets you order from the golf shop or grill.

The Bears Project

The Bears Project started in 2005 with the intention of showcasing the variety of talented artists within the Qualla Boundary. A committee researched several concepts prior to selecting a bear theme, as they intended to produce something that would be culturally significant. Bears are a large part of the Cherokee culture and appear in many of the stories and legends that the Cherokee people hold sacred. The culture currently recognizes contributions from the clan spirits of Bird, Blue, Deer, Long Hair, Paint, Wild Potato, and Wolf.

The Bears Project

The Bears Project started in 2005 with the intention of showcasing the variety of talented artists within the Qualla Boundary. A committee researched several concepts prior to selecting a bear theme, as they intended to produce something that would be culturally significant. Bears are a large part of the Cherokee culture and appear in many of the stories and legends that the Cherokee people hold sacred. The culture currently recognizes contributions from the clan spirits of Bird, Blue, Deer, Long Hair, Paint, Wild Potato, and Wolf.

Cherokee is situated just outside the gateway to the legendary Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most beautiful, biodiverse parks in the Southeast. World-class hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding are available in this wooded paradise at Cherokee’s doorstep.

Take a ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a definite highlight of any trip to Cherokee and Western North Carolina. This extensive, winding roadway takes you through some of the most breathtaking mountain views in the country. No trip is complete without a family drive, bike ride, or a motorcycle tour on the Parkway.

A perfect stop for families, Oconaluftee Islands Park is an island oasis among the waters of the rushing Oconaluftee River. Wade in the refreshing waters along the riverbank. Enjoy a quiet picnic. Or walk around the nature trails before exploring the rest of our Cherokee attractions.

Visit Mingus Mill near the Mountain Farm Museum, and explore one of the most historic sites in the region, surrounded by some of Cherokee country’s finest hiking trails and numerous historic landmarks. Mingus Mill is the ideal place for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural world of the Cherokee people.

The Smokemont Riding Stables, located within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers some of the best horseback riding in North Carolina. You can enjoy short hourly rides, longer excursions to Cherokee’s waterfalls, or wagon rides through the Cherokee landscape. With well-seasoned and sure-footed horses, and knowledgeable and friendly guides, this is a Cherokee attraction you simply can’t miss.

Take a walking tour along the beautiful Oconaluftee River Trail. From the start of the trailhead, wander along the banks of our pristine river, enjoying natural quiet spots and informative trail markers, before arriving at the Mountain Farm Museum, a collection of some of the oldest cabins and log buildings in all of Cherokee.

Although you may experience tranquility and peace in the calm beauty of Cherokee’s many waterways, ponds, and waterfalls, there is nothing quite like the thrill of an exciting tubing excursion. Take your family on a tubing adventure offered by one of Cherokee’s many rafting and tubing companies on various Cherokee rivers. Find the perfect tubing experience at the Cherokee Visitor Center.

One of the many Cherokee waterways, Soco Falls is a cascading masterpiece for those who journey to its resting place in the heart of Cherokee. Take a moment, and revel in the lush wilderness that surrounds you. You may find it difficult to leave a place that seems so secluded, while only being a short distance away from the rest of Cherokee.

Arguably the most stunning cascade in the region, Mingo Falls will hold your attention for hours. So bring a picnic, recline on the rocks, and bask in the iridescent spray. Your friends will certainly be impressed by the pictures, yet even more so if you can recount a good Cherokee legend to go along with them. Will it be the water bears or the storm spirits? You can imagine the Aniyvdaqualosgi up in the sky above the falls as you listen to the thundering of the water. Just try to be grumpy here; you’ll find it’s just about impossible.

Directions: From the Saunooke Village shopping area in downtown Cherokee, drive north on Big Cove Road approximately 5 miles (past the KOA Campground) to the Mingo Falls parking lot.

Surrounded by the Smoky Mountains, it’s no surprise that Cherokee is one of the top spots for viewing wildlife like the native elk. You also shouldn’t hesitate to explore the several species of birds. Cherokee is a treasure trove of outdoor wildlife waiting to be discovered through new eyes.

Welcome to the most pristine, well-stocked waters east of the Mississippi. Here, you can fill your livewell or basket with more than just fish. This is where historic cultural stories and experiences enrich every vacation. Learn about the ancient fishing weir, which once served as a significant tool for the Cherokee to provide subsistence for their villages. Grab a multi-day permit at any of our 28 fishing license locations in Cherokee or online at FishCherokee.com.

A lot of fun here is priceless. Here are a few adventures you'll need to purchase.

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian, named “One of the top ten native sites east of the Mississippi” by Cowboys & Indians Magazine, is open year round and gives families a unique, fun way to experience the history of the Cherokee people and their beautiful stories. Immerse yourself further by making special reservations for the museum’s “Cherokee Experience.”

Welcome to the most pristine, well-stocked waters east of the Mississippi. Here, you can fill your livewell or basket with more than just fish. This is where historic cultural stories and experiences enrich every vacation. Learn about the ancient fishing weir, which once served as a significant tool for the Cherokee to provide subsistence for their villages. Grab a multi-day permit at any of our 28 fishing license locations in Cherokee or online at FishCherokee.com.

Travel back to the 18th century in the Oconaluftee Indian Village and witness the struggle between the Cherokee and early European settlers in “A Time of War” live demonstrations. Participate in crafting, explore replicas of Cherokee homes, and meet the native people. This immersive village experience will surround you with native culture and shed light on all aspects of Cherokee history.

Take a seat beneath the stars and prepare yourself for a Cherokee story. Filled with action, betrayal, love, and suspense, “Unto These Hills” portrays the most authentic reproduction of the Cherokee story ever told, set each evening within the 2,100-seat Cherokee Mountainside Theatre. Feast on the pageantry. Revel in the thrills. Rejoice in the triumph.

It’s difficult to find authentic, handcrafted art in today’s world. Luckily, it has been a Cherokee tradition for centuries. Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. is the oldest Native American cooperative in the country, with over 350 juried artisans creating traditional Cherokee masks, pottery, baskets, jewelry, and much more. Qualla gives you the chance to hold history in your hands, and even take it home.

Experience the breathtaking surroundings and long-range views of Sequoyah National Golf Club. Here, our exquisitely beautiful mountain course mixes with ancient Cherokee culture and the most modern golfing experience you can have. For instance, our new Visage GPS tracks your score, provides precise yardage, and lets you order from the golf shop or grill.

While in Cherokee, don’t miss your chance to experience one of the finest casinos in the Southeast. Harrah’s features over 21 stories of four-star luxury hotel rooms along with fine dining, the relaxing Mandara Spa, and all of the gaming you can possibly enjoy in the Smokies. Guests also enjoy a full schedule of world-class entertainment in the 3,000-seat event center.